The Thompson Local News

Lucas Named Finalist For Manitoba Tourism Award

Posted about five months ago by Stuart Walter

A Thompsonite is one of only two northerners named as finalists for the 2018 Manitoba Tourism Awards.

Jasyn Lucas, who was nominated by Community Futures North Central Development (CFNCD) last month, has been named as a finalist in the Indigenous Tourism category. The local artist opened The Gift of Art (which serves an art gallery, studio and tattoo parlour) three years ago with his partner Nikki Brightnose.

A spokesperson for CFNCD said that they wanted to nominate Lucas as he is a great ambassador for Northern Manitoba, and sets an example for youth and the business community that it is possible to make a living doing what you’re passionate about. They added that the opening of the business enhanced both the art community and retail landscape here in Thompson.

The Indigenous Tourism Award is for those in Manitoba who are committed to sharing an authentic and realistic cultural activity and contribute to the promotion and advancement of Indigenous culture locally. The other two finalists in the category are the Manito Ahbee Festival (Winnipeg) and Traditional Trails (Winnipeg).

The only other northerner up for one of the awards is Mike Reimer of Churchill, who is a finalist for an individual award of distinction.